Li Yundi, the youngest ever winner of the International Frederick Chopin Piano Competition in 2000, is without a doubt an Asian classical music icon and a piano prodigy thanks to his combination of intelligence, gracefulness and good looks.

Despite being just 22, Li certainly appeared more mature this time while he was back in his hometown Shenzhen promoting his third album last Friday. Studying under the instruction of Arie Vardi at the Academy of Music in Hanover, Germany, Li is currently leading the life of a professional pianist, giving concerts around the world.

"I have learned to be more independent, as I have to take care of myself abroad. On the other hand, I have learned how to better communicate with my agent who takes charge of all my concerts, performances and albums," said Li.

Though a student, Li's global fame has already earned himself a starry life: a huge popular following, standing ovations and a busy concert schedule.

"Music learning is endless, and enriching my thoughts is also important particularly for a world-famous artists. I really broadened my horizons on my world tour meeting different people from all over the globe, which enhanced my understanding of music," said Li.

As for the young people who see him as their idol, Li thinks that it will hopefully raise their interest in classical music, which is a good thing. As for himself, all he really cares about is developing from being a pianist to becoming a true musician.

This time, the new album retains Li's own favorites -- Chopin's Scherzos and the Impromptus, which reflect different creative positions in Chopin's densely compacted oeuvre.

Chopin is Li's "first love". He has an incredible sense of form and an unbelievable sensitivity. "When other children were playing football or fighting, I began to focus on Chopin. His works are imbued by a hint of melancholy, even a longing for death," said Li.

The most striking aspect of Li's playing is that he does not appear to be under any pressure. He does not have to prove anything to anyone, and this means that there is an element of weightlessness to the effort involved in his playing. In spite of this, Li does not make things easy for himself: he never cheats in order to get round difficult passages, he plays with a rare combination of virtuoso skill and poetic interpretations, each note he plays is a reminder of why. Every detail is explored to the full, every nuance examined, every phrase immaculately balanced.

His experience of life in the East may also play a part in his delivery of Western classics: calmness in movement - just as the calmness of Li's playing comes from the extraordinary mobility and flexibility of his fingers and hands.

"Powerful playing lies in the fingers, not in the feet," he says. "I got this tip from my teacher Arie Vardi. For me, the pedal is used primarily to refine the color. I shape the tone with my back. In that way, I avoid tension even while practicing."

Li's 2004 schedule includes no more than 60 concerts, all in the first half year. Chopin recitals, he says, remain his favorite. "There's no need to prove that I am an all-round performer capable of performing the works of any composers,'' says Li.

Editor: Catherine